* They have the language to say what they think, want, feel, and need.

* They get along with other children and adults.

* They understand their own feelings and the feelings of others.

* They have pre-academic knowledge of vocabulary and conservation, phonology, concepts of print, concepts of math, and knowledge of the alphabet and numbers.

* They use scribbling, writing, and drawing to represent and interpret ideas.

* They see themselves as learners and approach learning with curiosity and interest.

* They use their imagination to play and create ideas and objects.

* They are well nourished, well rested, clean, and healthy.

* They take care of their physical needs (toileting and dressing)

* They use school tools (puzzles, scissors, computers, pencils, markers)

* They move their body, legs, and arms with coordination.

* They transition between activities with ease.

* They persist at several tasks throughout the day.

* They function well in groups, sharing ideas, toys, materials, and space.

* They follow two and three step directions.

* They sit and participate in circle time and small groups.

* They understand they are going to a new school called kindergarten.

 

From: Is Everybody Ready for Kindergarten? by Angele Sancho Passe 2010